The European Code Against Cancer
The European Code Against Cancer was drawn up by cancer experts who advise the European Commission. It consists of 10 simple rules by which people can significantly reduce the risk of cancer.
Certain cancers may be avoided and general health improved if you adopt a healthier lifestyle.
1. Do not smoke and if you do, try to stop as soon as possible
2. Watch your weight
3. Undertake some brisk, physical activity every day
4. Eat a variety of fruit and vegetables and try to eat at least five portions daily. Limit your intake of foods containing fats from animal sources
5. If you drink alcohol, whether beer, wine or spirits, moderate your consumption to two drinks per day if you are a man and one drink a day if you are a woman
6. Take care in the sun. Cover up - wear a hat and loose fitting clothing to protect your shoulders, arms and legs. Seek shade especially during the hottest part of the day between 11am and 3pm. Use sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.
7. Comply strictly with regulations aimed at preventing occupational or environmental exposure to known cancer-causing substances, including ionizing radiation.
More cancers may be cured if detected early
8. See a doctor if you notice: a lump, a sore which does not heal (including the mouth); a mole which changes shape, size or colour; any abnormal bleeding; persistent problems such as cough, hoarseness, heartburn and difficulty in swallowing; unexplained change in bowel or urinary habits or weight loss.
For women
9. Women over the age of 25 should have a cervical smear regularly. This should be within organised screening programmes with built-in quality control measures.
10. Women aged 50 and over should be offered and attend breast cancer screening. This should be within organised screening programmes with built-in quality control measures.
(Copyright Europe Against Cancer 2003)
